Solutions for Cleaning Dishwashers
Though dishwashers are designed to clean your dishes, pots and pans, they also require regular cleaning to keep them in proper working order. Cleaning your dishwasher regularly will ensure that your dishwasher washes your dishes thoroughly, and it can prevent problems down the road. Clean your dishwasher monthly -- and more often if you notice that your dishes are not being cleaned well. Does this Spark an idea?
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Cleaning the Interior
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The inside of your dishwasher may become dirty due to food and other debris, which can become trapped and not only prevent the dishwasher from cleaning your dishes, but can also result in an unpleasant odor. Remove all racks and utensil holders. Use hot soapy water to clean the inside of your dishwasher, including the inside door, sides and bottom. Use a small scrub brush to clean crevices, corners and other areas where food may be trapped. For trouble spots, mix baking soda and hot water into a paste and scrub with a damp sponge or cloth.
Racks and Utensil Holders
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Use a damp cloth to wipe down dish racks. Use hot soapy water for stuck-on food particles. If utensil holders are soiled, remove and soak in hot soapy water, and then wipe with a sponge or cloth. Once the interior of the dishwasher is completely clean, return all racks and holders to the dishwasher.
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Dishwasher Arm and Trap
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While the rack is removed, check to ensure that the mechanical components of your dishwasher are working properly and are not clogged with food or debris, which will prevent your dishwasher from thoroughly cleaning dishes. Check the drain trap for bits of glass or food, which may have become lodged. In addition, Popular Mechanics also suggests cleaning the spray arm to ensure that the holes are not blocked. A small metal skewer works well to clear the holes of lodged particles.
Deodorize
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Deodorize the inside of your dishwasher once it is clean. Place a cup of vinegar in the top rack and run a cycle while the dishwasher is empty; vinegar is effective at removing odors. Alternatively, baking soda may also be used to remove odors. To disinfect and freshen your dishwasher, run a cycle with a small amount of bleach; make certain not to place in dishes in the washer.
Maintenance
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In addition to regular cleanings, make certain that you use your dishwasher properly to avoid problems. Ensure that the water used by the dishwasher is hot enough -- a temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit should be adequate. In addition, avoid packing the dishwasher too tightly when loading; leave room between dishes for water to move.
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References
- Photo Credit Dishes image by Towards Ithaca from Fotolia.com
